Chorkie Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Chorkie is a cross between a Chihuahua and a Yorkshire Terrier. It is a tiny, spirited companion with a silky coat, large ears and an affectionate but sometimes bossy personality.

Origins and appearance

The cross has been bred in North America since the late twentieth century as a small companion. Chorkies are tiny and compact, with a rounded or slightly pointed head, upright or semi-upright ears, bright eyes and a coat that can be straight, silky or slightly wavy in tan, black, cream, brown or mixed.

Temperament

They are affectionate, alert and lively. They bond closely with one person or family. They can be wary of strangers and bark at noises. They can be stubborn and may guard their owners. They dislike being left alone and may develop separation problems.

Exercise

They need 20 to 40 minutes of daily exercise, with short walks and play. They adapt to apartment life. Mental games help.

Training

They are intelligent but can be stubborn. Use positive methods, short sessions and early socialization. House training can be slow. Teach quiet cues and gentle handling early. See how to use treats in dog training.

Coat and grooming

The coat needs brushing several times a week and a trim every few weeks. See silky coat dog grooming guide. Clean around the eyes, trim nails and brush teeth daily if possible.

Health considerations

A cross can inherit conditions from either parent. Topics include:

• Dental disease. See dental disease in dogs
• Luxating patella. See luxating patella in dogs
• Tracheal collapse, with a honking cough
• Hypoglycemia in tiny puppies
• Heart conditions. See heart murmurs in dogs
• Skin allergies. See dog skin allergies

Living with a Chorkie

A Chorkie fits a small flat or a house, but it needs a household that is home often. Plan for quiet evenings, a few short outings and consistent house rules. If visitors or young children are common, think carefully before choosing so tiny a dog.

A typical day

Picture a short breakfast walk, a nap in a sunny spot, a bout of play with a toy and a second outing in the evening. Between those, a Chorkie is likely to supervise the window and announce the postman.

Puppies and the first year

A Chorkie puppy fits in two hands, so handle it gently and teach children to sit on the floor to cuddle. Use pee pads or frequent trips outside during house training, offer several small meals a day and book vaccinations and a check-up early. Keep early social outings short and positive.

Costs and commitment

Budget for small bags of quality food, a groomer visit every few weeks if the coat is long, annual dental cleanings that may need anesthesia, and an emergency fund. A tiny dog can still produce a large vet bill. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

Short-legged and thin-coated Chorkies shiver in winter, so a jumper and booties may be welcome on frosty mornings. In summer, avoid hot pavements. Airlines often allow small dogs in cabin carriers, so check size limits before booking.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include skipping dental care, overfeeding treats, letting children handle roughly and tolerating nonstop barking.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about patella, heart and eye testing on both parents and meet them. Be wary of sellers advertising tiny sizes.

Small dog syndrome

Tiny dogs are sometimes allowed behavior that bigger dogs would not be, such as growling or guarding. Consistent rules, early socialization and kindly handling prevent bossiness and help a Chorkie become confident.

Fragile frames

Chorkies can be injured by jumps from furniture, being stepped on or squeezed. Use ramps, supervise children and consider a harness rather than a collar, which protects the trachea.

Daily care checklist

• Two or three short walks on a harness.
• A quick brush and a peek at the eyes and ears.
• Tooth brushing with dog-safe paste.
• A few minutes of training with treats.
• A warm bed away from drafts.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Chorkie suits owners who want a tiny, affectionate companion and will groom and provide dental care. It may not suit homes with young children. For a parent breed, see the Yorkshire Terrier.

The takeaway

Chorkies are tiny, spirited and affectionate, and they need dental care, gentle handling and company.